There’s nothing quite like the creamy and tangy goodness of Mrs Gerry’s Coleslaw. I’ve always loved how this classic side dish can elevate any meal, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. Inspired by the original recipe, I recreated this beloved coleslaw so you can enjoy the same delightful flavors at home.
Making this coleslaw is easier than you might think. With just a few simple ingredients and a touch of love, you can whip up a batch that’s crunchy, flavorful, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, Mrs Gerry’s Copycat Coleslaw is a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 medium red cabbage, finely shredded
- 2 large carrots, peeled and grated
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon celery seed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Tools
Creating Mrs Gerry’s Coleslaw Copycat Recipe is straightforward with the right tools. Here’s what I use to ensure every step is seamless and the final dish is perfectly creamy and crunchy:
- Large Mixing Bowl
Ideal for combining all the ingredients thoroughly.
- Chef’s Knife
Essential for finely shredding the cabbage and slicing the red onion.
- Cutting Board
Provides a stable surface for chopping and slicing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Ensures precise measurement of ingredients for balanced flavors.
- Grater or Food Processor
Quickly grates carrots to the perfect consistency.
- Whisk
Helps in blending the dressing ingredients smoothly.
- Mixing Utensils
Necessary for tossing the coleslaw to distribute the dressing evenly.
- Storage Container
Keeps the coleslaw fresh in the refrigerator until serving.
Having these tools at hand makes the preparation of this delicious coleslaw effortless and enjoyable. Each tool plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor that Mrs Gerry’s coleslaw is renowned for.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Mrs Gerry’s Coleslaw ahead of time is a game-changer, especially when hosting a big gathering or planning meals for the week. Here’s how I ensure my coleslaw stays fresh and flavorful:
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
I start by finely shredding the green and red cabbage, grating the carrots, and slicing the red onion. Once prepared, I place them in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Make the Dressing Separately
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, granulated sugar, Dijon mustard, celery seed, and your preferred seasonings. Keeping the dressing separate helps maintain the coleslaw’s crunch.
Step 3: Store Components Separately
To prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy, I store the shredded vegetables and the dressing in separate airtight containers. This way, each component retains its texture until you’re ready to serve.
Step 4: Combine Before Serving
When it’s time to enjoy the coleslaw, I simply pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss everything together until well coated. For the best flavor, let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.
Storage Tips
| Component | Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded Vegetables | Airtight container in the refrigerator | Up to 3 days |
| Dressing | Airtight container in the refrigerator | Up to 1 week |
| Combined Coleslaw | Refrigerated after mixing | Best within 24 hours |
Directions
Recreating Mrs Gerry’s Coleslaw is a rewarding process that brings vibrant flavors to your table. Follow these steps to achieve that perfect balance of creamy and tangy.
Prepare Vegetables
- Shred the Cabbage: I start by finely shredding 4 cups of green cabbage and 2 cups of red cabbage using a sharp chef’s knife or a food processor.
- Grate the Carrots: Next, I grate 1½ cups of fresh carrots until they are fine and evenly sized.
- Slice the Red Onion: I thinly slice half a medium red onion to add a subtle zing to the coleslaw.
Make Dressing
- Combine Mayonnaise and Vinegar: In a mixing bowl, I whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise and ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar until smooth.
- Add Sweetness and Spice: I add 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Season the Dressing: Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of celery seed and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. I whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
Combine Ingredients
- Mix Vegetables and Dressing: I pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage, carrots, and red onion in a large mixing bowl.
- Toss to Combine: Using clean hands or a sturdy spoon, I thoroughly toss the vegetables with the dressing, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate: I cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften slightly.
- Serve Fresh: Before serving, I give the coleslaw a final toss to redistribute any dressing that may have settled. It’s best enjoyed chilled within 24 hours for maximum freshness and crunch.
Tips and Variations
Enhance the Flavor
- Chill Time: Let the coleslaw rest in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use freshly grated carrots and finely shredded cabbage for maximum crunch and vibrant taste.
- Balance Tanginess: Adjust the apple cider vinegar to achieve your preferred level of tanginess.
Customize Your Coleslaw
- Add Fruits: Incorporate sliced apples or dried cranberries for a touch of natural sweetness.
- Different Cabbage: Mix green and purple cabbage to add color and varied textures to your coleslaw.
- Nuts and Seeds: Sprinkle in toasted sunflower seeds or chopped almonds for an extra crunch.
Adjust the Dressing
- Creamy Variation: Substitute half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier dressing.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give your coleslaw a spicy twist.
- Sweetness Level: Modify the amount of granulated sugar to suit your taste, making it sweeter or more tangy as desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Grilled Meats: Pair the coleslaw with barbecue chicken, pulled pork, or grilled sausages for a complete meal.
- Summer Picnics: Serve as a refreshing side dish at picnics, buffets, or outdoor gatherings.
- Tacos and Sandwiches: Use coleslaw as a crunchy topping for tacos, sandwiches, or sliders.
Storage Tips
| Component | Storage Duration |
|---|---|
| Shredded Vegetables | Up to 3 days in the refrigerator |
| Dressing | Up to 1 week in the refrigerator |
| Combined Coleslaw | Best enjoyed within 24 hours |
Make It Vegan
- Replace Mayonnaise: Use vegan mayonnaise or a dairy-free alternative to make the coleslaw suitable for plant-based diets.
- Add Avocado: Mash ripe avocado and mix it into the dressing for a creamy, vegan-friendly option.
Boost the Nutrition
- Extra Veggies: Add shredded carrots, bell peppers, or snap peas to increase the nutritional value.
- Herbs and Spices: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance the flavor and add a fresh twist.
By experimenting with these tips and variations, you can tailor Mrs Gerry’s Coleslaw to perfectly match your taste and occasion, making it a versatile and beloved addition to any meal.
Conclusion
Creating Mrs Gerry’s Coleslaw has been so rewarding. I love how easy it is to make and how it brightens up any meal. Whether you’re grilling with friends or enjoying a quiet family dinner I hope this coleslaw becomes a staple in your kitchen. It’s simple ingredients come together to deliver amazing flavor and crunch. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out. Enjoy the tasty results and the smiles it brings to your table!
